1. SCARA Robots (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm) 

• These robots are developed to perform those tasks requiring high speed and precision in manufacturing and assembly processes. SCARA robots have a rigid structure with two rotary joints for horizontal motion and a prismatic joint for vertical motion. This configuration allows them to be suitable for tasks that require precise horizontal movements. They are often considered cost-effective due to their simplicity in design and control. Even though they are good with horizontal movements, they may not be versatile in working in three-dimensional spaces or applications that require strict vertical rigidity. 

• Applications: They are well-suited for a variety of applications ranging from assembly and pick-and-place operations to testing and inspection tasks. 

2. Delta Robots 

• These robots are designed to provide high speed and precision in small workspaces. Delta robots have three arms connected to a common base. Motors or actuators for each joint work together to control the end-effector’s position. This parallel actuation leads to their high speed and precision. Delta robots often have compact designs and also can be designed to handle significant payloads. 

• Applications: Widely used in food and pharmaceutical industries for packaging, sorting and pick-and-place operations. 

3. Articulated Robots 

• These robots have joints very similar to human arms, thus having the ability to mimic human movements. They are known for their extensive range of motion. They often integrate sensors to enable precise control and interaction. They can be programmed using offline programming, teach pendant programming or through Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. 

• Applications: Widely used in material handling, assembly lines, welding, painting, space explorations and surgery. 

4. Cartesian Robots 

• These robots operate in a three-dimensional rectangular coordinate system providing linear movement along the x, y and z axes. The X-axis represents horizontal movement, the Y-axis represents vertical movement, and the Z-axis represents depth or distance into and out of the workspace. Unlike some other types of robots, cartesian robots move in straight lines along each axis. This property makes them useful for applications that involve precise positioning and linear movements. 

• Applications: Widely used for CNC machining, 3D printing, and material handling. 

5. Collaborative Robots (Cobots) 

• With built-in safety features, these robots are designed to work alongside humans in a shared space. The goal is to facilitate a collaborative working environment for humans and robots. They are equipped with advanced safety features to prevent accidents or injuries. They are designed to be easily programmed. Usually, cobots are smaller and lighter than traditional robots. They are also considered cost-effective for small and medium-sized enterprises. With technology advancements, cobots are equipped with artificial intelligence, machine learning etc. 

• Applications: Cobots find applications in various industries including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics and more. 

6. Mobile robots 

• Mobile robots, consisting of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), are designed to enhance material handling and transportation in industrial settings like warehouses and factories. AGVs follow predefined paths using markers or wires, ideal for repetitive tasks. AMRs, more advanced and flexible, navigate using sensors and maps, allowing them to adapt to dynamic environments. Both types significantly boost efficiency by automating transport tasks, reducing manual labor, and improving workflow. 

• Applications: Mobile robots are extensively used in warehouses for inventory management and order picking, in factories for material transport and assembly line feeding, and in distribution centers for sorting and shipping tasks. Their versatility improves efficiency, accuracy, and safety across various supply chain and manufacturing processes. 

7. Parallel Robots 

• A parallel robot also known as a parallel manipulator, is a type of robot that uses multiple parallel actuators to control the movement of an end-effector. They are known for their high stiffness, rigidity, and precision in positioning. This makes them ideal for those applications requiring high accuracy and speed. 

• Applications: Parallel robots find applications in manufacturing, aerospace, medical surgery, simulators, and more.